Stress and Mitochondrial Toxicity

Description: Exploring mechanisms of free radical damage and toxicity to mitochondria as they relate to neurotoxicity/neurodegeneration. This study is supported by an interagency agreement between NIEHS/NTP and FDA to support studies of mutual benefit to FDA and NIEHS/ NIH.

Definition: Oxidative stress is caused by an imbalance in cells between reactive oxygen and their ability to detoxify reactive oxygen. This ability is related to aging and to several diseases. Mitochondrial toxicity occurs when the mitochondria of the body's cells become damaged or decline significantly in number. These conditions are studied here in relationship to neurotoxicity and neurodegeneration, both of which can cause loss of cognitive function.

These studies will provide insight into potential strategies for preventing or ameliorating the progression of neurodegenerative diseases.

Public Health Outcome: These studies will provide insight into potential strategies for preventing or alleviating the progression of neurodegenerative diseases which cause the progressive loss of structure or function of neurons.

Footnotes

The dates in italics are modified milestone due dates that have been updated due to real-time delays. The milestone status reflects the current reporting quarter’s status. If a milestone is missed, the milestone will remain delayed until the milestone is completed.

3. Silver Nanoparticles Study

Accomplishment: Silver nanoparticles were shown to decrease body weight and locomotor activity. In order to gain a better understanding of the nanoparticles, various detection methods were utilized. This study is one of the first known experiments to determine toxicity of silver nanoparticles in mammals.

Milestone Description

Milestone Date

Milestone Status

Milestone Completion Date

a. Receive and install microscope for cell culture lab

12/31/2009

Completed

12/14/2009

b. Begin use of the confocal microscope in support of silver nanoparticles study

3/31/2010

Completed

3/8/2010

c. Review results obtained using the confocal microscope in support of silver nanoparticles study

present in muscle and liver and involved in the transport of fatty acids across mitochondrial membranes

neuronal degeneration

progressive loss of structure or function of neurons

resveratrol

a natural compound found in grapes, mulberries, peanuts, and other plants or food products, especially red wine, that may protect against cancer and cardiovascular disease by acting as an antioxidant, antimutagen, and anti-inflammatory

neuropathy

nerve damage

concept paper

description of a planned research activity that is submitted to the NCTR Director in advance of submission of a protocol

biomarkers

measurable characteristics that indicate the transition between biological states such as healthy or diseased

MRI

Magnetic Resonance Imaging

Note: The data provided on this website is produced on an ongoing basis for performance management purposes and is subject to change due to updates of preliminary estimates, corrections, or other reasons. In addition, FDA may change the type or amount of data provided on this website at any time. Information marked as "Completed" may include measures and/or key projects for which activities are ongoing but no longer tracked as part of FDA-TRACK.